Senate Approves 2026 Electoral Act Amendment Bill

On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate passed the 2026 Electoral Act amendment bill, which aims to clarify court jurisdiction and timelines for handling pre-election disputes. Senator Simon Lalong, representing the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Plateau State, presented the bill, which seeks to address longstanding legal uncertainties surrounding court authority to hear pre-election matters.

The amendment introduces a new section 29A to clearly define jurisdiction over pre-election matters, despite existing provisions in Section 285(14) of the 1999 Constitution. The bill allows aspirants to file pre-election cases in federal high courts or appeal courts, with presidential and vice-presidential contest cases beginning at the court of appeal.

This legislative change aims to reduce delays and strengthen public trust in the electoral process. Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the committee for its work and expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would assent to the legislation, further strengthening democracy in the country.